BIGMallrat | Retail history of Northern California

Published July 9, 2026 A snapshot of Eastridge Mall in 2005, capturing the shopping center during one of the most significant transformations in its history. Front cover Front cover of the 2005 Eastridge Mall directory. Mall map & directory Mall map and store directory from Eastridge Mall, 2005. Fast facts Date : 2005 Location : San Jose, California Anchors : Sears, Macy's, JCPenney Stores and services:  More than 80 Layout : Two levels Source : Contemporary mall directory Highlights Holiday-themed directory featuring Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer. Holiday events, including photos with Santa and seasonal entertainment. Documents the mall following its major 2005 renovation. Former Emporium-Capwell site under redevelopment as Barnes & Noble, Bed Bath & Beyond, and AMC Eastridge 15. Grand opening of AMC Eastridge 15, including a Harry Potter-themed red carpet event. About this directory This directory captures Eastridge Mall du...

Published: November 3, 2006 · Last updated: September 23, 2026 When Eastridge Mall opened on May 17, 1971, it was promoted as the largest shopping mall in the West. Developed by Bayshore Properties and Homart Development Company, the East San Jose center brought more than 160 stores, four major department stores, and more than 1.7 million square feet of retail space to a former agricultural landscape. But Eastridge was notable for more than its size. Its three-level design, dramatic Grand Court, fountains, commissioned artwork, bold colors, and unusual split-level layout represented a new approach to the regional shopping center. The mall was designed not simply as a place to shop, but as a destination and public space. Early postcards captured that ambition. Their views of the Grand Court, department stores, fountains, sculpture, and brightly finished interiors preserve Eastridge as it appeared during its opening era, before decades of renovation transformed much of the original de...